Garden For Birds

There are very few things in this world that are as beautiful and pleasant as songbirds. These amazing creatures brighten up gloomy winters and are always enjoyable to have around in your garden. Some bird sightings are rare. If gardeners create a healthy environment for them, we could protect the future of these creatures. Making your garden more bird friendly through a few simple changes in scenery will attract many birds of different species to your property.

An important point to keep in mind is that you need to know the types of birds you want to attract and, therefore, must build up your landscape according to their needs. Certain species are easily accustomed to most landscapes whilst others, usually the colourful species, are drawn to specific environments to breed fruitfully. Remember to plant your new landscape in a way that suits both you and your existing landscape. For example, a wild or loose fitting setting may indeed attract birds but it might not blend in with an already well-trimmed landscape. Plant accordingly to suit yourself and the birds.

In winter, it is very common to stock a feeder to attract these lovely feathered creatures. Wild bird seed, sunflower seeds in particular, are full of carbohydrates and lipids that provide the birds with sufficient energy to make it through these cold months. During warmer seasons, certain species may require food in the form of insects, berries, nectar and fruits which consist of proteins and necessary nutrients required for the birds to breed and raise their young.

Birds of all species need a source of clean water for drinking. Birds also use the water for bathing and feather maintenance. If a natural source is not available on your property, you can provide one by adding a bird bath or garden pond. The bird baths should consist of water that is no more than 3 inches deep. A rough surface is also recommended as a foothold. Make sure that the water is kept clean. Dust baths can be framed with stone, wood or brick to make them look more attractive.

Shelter is another important component you should consider when developing a garden for birds. In the summer, birds need to be protected from the sun. In the winter and early spring, they need shelter from the cold wind and rain. Planting dense shrubs offers the birds protection from preying animals such as hawks. The shrubs should be low and have many leaves and thick branching.

You can also provide nesting sites for the birds that visit your garden by introducing a bird-box to your landscape. The size of the box and the entrance hole varies according to the sizes of the different species of birds. The bird boxes should be well ventilated. Keep in mind that a perch under the entrance hole is not recommended as predators are able to stand on it and steal eggs and capture young birds.
Your garden can be kept safe for birds by keeping cats indoors or in control when they are outside and not using any harmful chemicals on your landscape. Hanging ribbons on your windows will help prevent birds from hitting them.

Remember that it is difficult to provide everything a bird requires in your garden. Even a few simple bird-friendly changes made to your property will attract a number of different types of birds. If you give them what they want, you will have the pleasure of looking out the window and seeing these birds happily occupied in your garden